Although many historical figures have in the past been glorified as heroes in the context of national narratives, today they are being scrutinized and critically examined in the wake of worldwide anti-racism protests. In contrast to traditional ?value-neutral= historiography, ethical and moral standards are now being applied. The darker sides of previously celebrated protagonists are therefore also now coming into view, and they may now appear, for example, as figures symbolizing imperial aggression and colonialist exploitation. However, before we summarily condemn these national heroes and topple them from their pedestals, we need a precise picture of their deeds and misdeeds. To provide this, Udo Witzens portrays 16 exemplary figures in world history& from Alexander the Great to Winston Churchill to Aung San Suu Kyi.

Dr. Udo Witzens was a member of staff in the South Asia Institute at the University of Heidelberg and a lecturer in political education in Karlsruhe.